Clint Dempsey scores after 32 seconds vs. Ghana

United States' Clint Dempsey celebrates scoring the opening goal during the group G World Cup soccer match between Ghana and the United States at the Arena das Dunas in Natal, Brazil, Monday, June 16, 2014. (AP Photo/Hassan Ammar)

NATAL, Brazil — Clint Dempsey scored the fastest goal by an American in World Cup history, putting the United States ahead after 32 seconds of its opener against Ghana on Monday night.

DaMarcus Beasley, the first American to play in four World Cups, passed the ball on the left flank to Jermaine Jones, who sent it on to Dempsey.

The U.S. captain cut between Sulley Muntari and John Boye and beat goalkeeper Adam Kwarasey with a left-footed shot from 8 yards, setting off explosive cheers from the red, white and blue-clad American fans at the other end of Arena das Dunas.

Dempsey became the first American to score in three World Cups following goals against the Black Stars in 2006 and England four years ago.